The Tukwila Police Department is warning residents about a scam text message circulating over the weekend that falsely claims to be from a state motor vehicle agency demanding payment for an alleged traffic violation.
Police said the message, which references a “Department of Motor Vehicles” and threatens enforcement penalties, is fraudulent and should be ignored.
“There is no ‘DMV’ in Washington State and government agencies will not be texting you using a St. Louis or other out of state area code to demand money,” police said in a statement. “Don’t fall victim to these scams.”
The scam message claims the recipient has an outstanding traffic ticket and threatens consequences such as suspension of vehicle registration and driving privileges if payment is not made.
Police urged residents not to click on any links or provide personal or financial information in response to such messages.
